Menopause is a transition period in a women’s life where the ovaries stop producing eggs and less of the hormones progesterone and estrogen. This can translate to the menstral flow slowly stopping over time, sometimes becoming more closely or widely spaced, and heavier some months and lighter in others.
Menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45-55 years old; although symptoms of menopause can last as long as 5 years or more. Clinical postmenopause is when a women has not had a period for one year.
Menopause symptoms caused by decreased hormone production can be mild, moderate, or severe and vary depending on the individual. These include hot flashes, night sweats, skin flushing, heart pounding or racing, and insomnia. Other symptoms although not as common include forgetfulness, headaches, mood swings, urine leakage, vaginal dryness, vaginal infections, joint aches and pains, and irregular heartbeat.
Hormone therapy can be considered one of the more effective treatments for menopausal symptoms. Although due to recent research studies revealing an increase incidence of breast cancer or endometrial cancer with certain hormone formulations, new medical standards have been developed. These include prescription of very low dose transdermal estrogens with scheduled oral progesterone on an occasional basis.
Some effective alternatives to hormone therapy include antidepressants such as venlafaxine or paroxetine as well as natural over the counter black cohash creams or tablets and acupuncture treatment.
For less severe menopause, strategies to reduce symptoms can include avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods; eating soy foods, taking calcium and vitamin D supplements, regular exercise, and relaxation techniques including deep breathing and/or yoga.
Although menopause is a normal transition in a woman’s life, the goal is that each woman navigate the symptoms whether mild, moderate, or severe while maintaining a quality of life and health. The primary care provider can be an advocate and assist in accomplishing such a goal.
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Rita, along with her husband, Dr. Frank established Eastside Family Health Center in 1999. She later joined EFHC in 2007 as a provider. In addition to caring for a wide range of patients, Rita’s special interest is Women’s Care and primary care for adults and adolescents. You can find out more about Rita at Eastside Family Health.
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